INTERNATIONAL SERVICE AS A MEANS OF IMPROVING RETENTION OF ENGINEERING STUDENTS

One of the most significant challenges facing engineering education is the chronic problem of inclusion and retention of underrepresented minority (URM) groups. One group requiring unique retention efforts is students who are making satisfactory grades when they decide to withdraw. Many of these students have a difficult time connecting the work of introductory engineering classes with the local, national and international societal issues that they value. Service learning has been integrated into many non-engineering curricula with success in developing skills and promoting social engagement. In engineering settings it can also be used to highlight the link between engineering and society at moments when students seek such a connection. The authors have established an international service club with activities developing in Peru. The paper presents an overview of some of the international service activities currently underway which have resulted in good participation, and exceptionally strong interest by URM students. Students will be surveyed as to their desire to integrate service in their careers and ways that involvement in the club has fulfilled these desires. On outline of such a survey instrument is presented.